Often the first personnel to arrive at the scene of an emergency is an EMT. An EMT may be a firefighter, ambulance attendant, lifeguard, park ranger, a member of a search & rescue team, nurse or member of a ski patrol. Many police officers, private security personnel and occupational safety team members are EMT educated. EMT training and experience is the foundation needed for those who desire to become a paramedic.

Employment opportunities could vary depending upon job title, location of job, work shift and education. Salary could range from$25,000-$40,000 depending on the factors listed. Dual trained personnel, such as an EMT/Firefighter could earn $40,000-$50,000 a year.

EMT curriculum includes lectures on anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, communicable diseases, scene and patient assessment and medical and trauma management. EMT skill labs include the use of "real life" scenarios during which students communicate with fire and police department responders, and manage the care and transportation of the patient. Students who attain a basic skills level in the classroom must complete a mandatory ten hour fire department or ambulance ride along or hospital emergency room rotation. This is arranged by the college and is in addition to classroom hours. All students must have current rubella and TB immunizations.

When all course requirements are satisfactorily completed, a Certificate of Program Completion is awarded and student credentials are presented to a county Emergency Medical Services Office for certifications to be issued. National registry exams can be taken following course completion. A grade of "C" or better is required for all courses. State certification must be renewed every two years.